One more year

Your options for getting an OTR job are probably pretty slim, I went through that at 23, and ended up having to go through a trucking school twice, as I was too young the first time!

Call and talk to the OTR companies, and ask what your odds are. That's probably your best bet. In the mean time find a construction company that will let you drive a dump truck, that will get your feet wet. You might be a laborer and part time truck driver, but "be the guy" that wants to drive the trucks. Pretty soon you'll be the dedicated truck guy! Just make sure you have that CDL in your pocket first lol. Or, you could even drive a school bus, l hear them advertise on the radio they will help you get your CDL. One more time, its a foot in the door, its a CDL job that will look good on a job application.

Depending on what the OTR companies have to say (at what age they'll accept you) I would consider going through a truck driving school. Shop around for a school you can afford. There are grants out there, so maybe get a school counselor to help you?

The Vo-Tech here in Wichita Ks. Actually has a state-run truck driving school. The cost was very reasonable. Recruiters from ALL the big OTR companies came through, and we listened to what they had to offer. Not recommending you come here and go through this school, just more of a "heads up" to what's out there and what kind of help is out there. When I was old enough, and went through that school the 2nd time, I actually had my pick of companies, and had half a dozen offers if not more. So the school thing really paid off at that time.

How about the military, is that an option for you? Lots of OTR companies offering jobs for those with former military experience. My first truck driving job was on a wheat harvest crew. We went from Texas, and cut wheat all the way into Canada, and then started over again for fall harvest. Most of the Custom Cutting Crews will take an 18-19 year old guy. You just might have to think outside the box a little bit to find a company that will take you on. Keep after it, you'll find somebody that will give you a shot.

 

You can get a job driving at 18 or 19 but it would be local or in state only. Hafta be 21 to drive OTR.

 

I got mine at 18 and have been driving a cement truck since the week I got it. Get apps in right after you get out that eases some of the insurance problems and a good drivign record helps. Dump trucks, Concrete mixers, Grain trucks will prolly be your easiest bet another one to consider would be UPS, fedex,side loading trailers(soda trucks) other delivery trucks they require a cdl and its a start. Like said above though your stuck in state till your 21 Ive tried every loophole possible from team driving to moving to another state(dont ask I heard a rumor and called to check) best of luck.